Hector Lopez announced his run for mayor on Wednesday at the Network Bar in Downtown El Paso. (Vanessa Monsisvais / El Paso Times)

Surrounded by young friends and longtime El Paso Democratic political players, Hector Lopez announced his campaign for mayor in a Downtown bar Wednesday night.

Lopez, 33, spoke mostly in generalities and did not address specific issues.

The Cathedral High School graduate called El Paso a city at a crossroads, stressing the need to restore public trust and that every resident should be heard and represented.

"We need progress with fairness," he said, drawing loud cheers from about 100 people crowded into The Network. "We must have public dialogue where everyone has a voice."

Lopez, who has not held public office, wants to further development and turn El Paso into a "great metroplex of the Americas" while also reducing the cost of living.

Reporter Evan Mohl

He said he would focus on improving education, championing the growth of small business "into Fortune 500 ones," and improve civic organizations to help provide basic needs.

Asked to be more specific on how to accomplish those goals, Lopez said he plans to have a series of meetings with various community members and leaders.

He said he plans to unveil his campaign initiatives in the coming week.

Lopez appeared to draw a stark line between his campaign and those of other mayoral candidates, specifically city Rep. Steve Ortega.

Lopez touted his independent voice and lack of previous political ties, citing his work in the city's Economic Development Department under two mayors -- Ray Caballero and Joe Wardy.

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Calling his campaign an underdog without "deep pockets," Lopez said he could rely on the great leadership of political leaders of the past. Former Democratic state Rep. Norma Chavez, current El Paso Independent School District president Isela Castañon-Williams, Mariana Chew and Fernando Chacon attended the event.

"This current (city) council, there's so much mistrust, and I believe Hector is someone who can change that, who can question the city manager, who is a good contrast to Ortega," said Othon Medina, a supporter. "Some people call us the old guard, but I think this is someone who can inspire young people and reach a new generation."

Lopez, who graduated from Georgetown University, drew several young people.

Former co-worker Susana Lugo talked about the need for a Hispanic mayor and the great work she said Lopez did with the National Hispanic Institute, where he helped expand the organization into Latin America.

Lopez stepped down from the institute in September as senior vice president to focus on his mayoral run. He works full-time for Villanova University in Pennsylvania as an assistant director for admissions.

He recruits students from the West and Mexico.

"I think he can help transition El Paso to the hip, fun city it should be," Lugo said. "He's the future, but won't forget this city's roots."

Evan Mohl may be reached at emohl@elpasotimes.com; 546-6381. Follow him on Twitter @EvanMohl

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